Frustrated residents unable to retrieve cars or belongings after Bell Collier apartment fire – WSB-TV Channel 2

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Channel 2’s Christian Jennings was live from the scene on WSB tonight at 11pm on Sundays when residents are frustrated because they cannot get their belongings back.

“People have been sleeping in their cars, people have been sleeping here, people have nowhere to go,” said fire victim Snapper Freeman.

Freeman sent News on channel 2 photos of his apartment.

Nearly 24 hours after firefighters evacuated more than 250 homes, they were still rescuing animals and residents were stuck outside, unable to retrieve their belongings.

They can’t even get out of their vehicles and many are parked in the building’s underground parking lot. That’s where most of the damage is and where the security issues are greatest.

“Everything is gone… you can’t go back into the building… all my stuff is on the balcony, everything is gone, I can’t do anything, everything is gone…” Freeman said.

Freeman forwarded Jennings an email from the apartment complex that was sent Sunday morning.

He said Monday could be the earliest they know if it is safe for people to come in and collect their belongings.

However, just after midnight Monday, Jennings received an update from a resident saying, “It could be weeks before people can get their cars back.”

“People need medication, insulin, EpiPens… they can’t get in. How do people move through the apartment complex? How do people come in through a door and not get medication?” Freeman asked.

The Red Cross has confirmed News on channel 2 that the disaster response team has opened a shelter for residents in need.

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“They tell you to go talk to the Red Cross, go to a homeless shelter… luxury apartments and they want you to go to a homeless shelter? No hotel vouchers, nothing,” Freeman said.

“I have to find a place to stay for the next few days or weeks,” he said.

John Nussear said he is currently staying with a friend but hopes to return home soon to pick up his medication and other essentials.

He said he was grateful for the work Atlanta firefighters did to protect residents and their pets.

“The firefighters also rescued a pit bull here, they risked their lives to save that animal,” Nussear said.

On Sunday, a spokesperson for Bell Partners released the following statement:

“On Saturday, a fire broke out at the Bell Collier Village apartment community. All residents of the 256-unit community have been evacuated and thankfully, no injuries have been reported. We are extremely grateful for the quick response of the Atlanta Fire Department and law enforcement. We are working closely with them to assess the structural safety and stabilization of the building. We will provide additional updates as they become available.”

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